NHL Playoffs: What channel is Islanders vs. Panthers Game 5 on?

Here’s where to watch Game 5 of the Eastern Conference first round playoff series between the New York Islanders and Florida Panthers on TV.

With nothing to separate them in the Eastern Conference first round playoffs through four games, the New York Islanders and Florida Panthers will meet for a critical Game 5  on Friday night at the BB&T Center.

Friday’s puck drop is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Eastern. TV coverage will be carried by CNBC, with live streaming also available on the NBC Sports Live Extra app.

The Panthers used their superior size to stifle the Islanders offense in a 2-1 win in Wednesday’s Game 4 to even the series. Jaromir Jagr recorded an assist in the second period for his first point of the series before Alex Petrovic scored the game-winner midway through the second.

Roberto Luongo turned away what little pressure the Islanders were able to generate, making 26 saves. At the very least, New York was finally able to stop Reilly Smith, who has a team-high four goals this postseason.

While New York struggled to generate much offense in Game 4, it hasn’t been that way the rest of the series. John Tavares scored the Islanders’ lone goal on Wednesday to raise his series point total to seven and is making something happen nearly every time he is on the ice.

New York should also be thrilled with the performance of backup goalie Thomas Greiss, who has been fantastic filling in for the injured Jaroslav Halak. The rest of the series, including Game 5, will be be dependent on if Florida’s defensive improvements continue or not.

For more coverage of the NHL Playoffs, make sure to check out our NHL hub page.